Larsson puts Celtic in dreamland

O'Neill said: 'It's a fantastic feeling and we really deserved it. Boavista were so negative; they were going down and rolling about all over the place. I thought we would need three or four chances in the second half but, in the end, we only needed the one.

'I'm delighted for everybody at the club because we've done it and we're in the Final. 'It's all about the players and the supporters. I've always said this game is about those who play and those who pay. But don't get me wrong; selfishly, I'm delighted for myself, too, and for John and Steve.'

Neil Lennon was equally thrilled at the success and added: 'It is pretty emotional in the dressing room. This is a lifetime achievement. I thought we thoroughly deserved it because we made all the running. 'We have got our just rewards.'

For Lennon it is a remarkable end to a period where he has fallen out of favour with some sections of the Celtic support. The triumph last night will ensure he is once again taken to their hearts.

'I feel like a boxer who has taken all the punches,' he said. 'I've had it all, even death threats but I am just delighted for everyone.' Lambert, who limped out of the match midway through the first half, will look to the UEFA Final as a chance to capture a unique European double.

The Celtic captain now has the chance to join the exclusive club of Champions League and UEFA Cup winners. 'I don't think the players will realise what they have achieved until the night of the Final,' he said. 'It is a great achievement and anything can happen in a one-off Final with Porto.'

Goalscorer Larsson added; 'You never think that it is not going to be your night just because you miss a chance but I got one and that's all that counts.'